Peak Cavern travel guide

Peak Cavern, also known as the Devil's Arse, is a fascinating natural wonder located in Castleton, Derbyshire. The cavern has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation in the area since prehistoric times. The cave's extensive system of chambers and passages has made it one of the most significant geological sites in the UK.

In medieval times, the cave was used as a shelter and a place for rope-making, an industry that thrived in Castleton for centuries. The cavern's large entrance, the largest of any cave in Britain, provided an ideal workspace for rope-makers, who lived and worked in the cave until the early 20th century.

In the 19th century, Peak Cavern gained notoriety when it was visited by Queen Victoria, who was reportedly so impressed by its grandeur that she granted permission for it to be renamed from the Devil's Arse to Peak Cavern. Today, the cavern is a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours that delve into its intriguing history and showcase its stunning natural formations.

Peak Cavern, also known as the 'Devil's Arse,' boasts the largest natural cave entrance in the British Isles, offering a dramatic and awe-inspiring introduction to the subterranean world within. This grand entrance has historically allowed visitors to access the cavern without stooping or squeezing through narrow passages, a rarity among caves.

One of the cave's most unique features is its impressive acoustics, which have been utilized for various musical performances and events, enhancing the cavern's mysterious and enchanting atmosphere. Additionally, Peak Cavern is distinguished by its historical role as a rope-making site. Visitors can still witness traditional ropemaking demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the cave's industrial past.

Another remarkable aspect of Peak Cavern is its network of underground rivers and streams, which create a dynamic and ever-changing landscape beneath the earth. These waterways have carved out an intricate system of passages and chambers, providing an adventurous experience for spelunkers and cave enthusiasts. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and unique geological features makes Peak Cavern a standout attraction.

Unlike most show caves, Peak Cavern has a natural entrance that's the largest in the British Isles, and was historically used as a ropemakers' village. This cavern is also unique for its nickname, 'The Devil's Arse,' attributed to the flatulent-sounding noises produced by the cave's drainage system after heavy rains. Peak Cavern has hosted concerts, including a performance by the band The Darkness, utilizing its incredible acoustics. It is the only cave in the UK to have a genuine underground river, making it a fascinating site for hydrology enthusiasts. Additionally, the cavern was used as a filming location for the 1992 movie 'The Last of the Mohicans,' adding a touch of cinematic history to its allure.

Located in the dynamic Castleton, the popular Peak Cavern is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful village of Castleton or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

Castleton is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Castleton offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Castleton and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Blue John Cavern, Peveril Castle, and Cave Dale.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Castleton has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Castleton, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

The best time to explore Peak Cavern in Castleton, England, is during the late spring and early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and cave exploration. Summer months, particularly July and August, tend to attract the most visitors, so planning a trip in late spring or early autumn can help you avoid peak crowd levels while still enjoying favorable weather conditions.

Winter offers a unique charm with the possibility of witnessing the cavern's impressive acoustics during special Christmas carol events, usually held in December. These events add a magical touch to the experience and attract many visitors, so booking in advance is recommended. Additionally, the cavern remains at a constant temperature of around 7-8°C (45-46°F) year-round, so dressing in layers is advisable regardless of the season.

To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the day to enjoy the quieter morning hours and the stunning natural light that filters into the cave. By carefully planning your trip around these seasonal and event-based factors, you can ensure that you experience the best of what Peak Cavern has to offer.

Peak Cavern is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Castleton, England. If you're flying in, Manchester Airport is approximately 20.5 miles (33 km) away from Castleton. From there, you can easily reach Peak Cavern by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Castleton, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Peak Cavern, which is located 0.3 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Peak Cavern, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Peak Cavern Road, Hope Valley S33 8WS, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Peak Cavern!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Peak Cavern and other top attractions in Castleton than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Castleton include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Peak Cavern's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Peak Cavern and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind show cave in England.

Conveniently explore Peak Cavern and plenty more captivating attractions in Castleton by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the village. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Peak Cavern and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Castleton has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Peak Cavern below.

Aside from Peak Cavern, Castleton is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the village offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Castleton, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Blue John Cavern, Peveril Castle, and Cave Dale.

Blue John Cavern is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Castleton, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the village. The exact address of Blue John Cavern is Cross St, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WH, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Castleton is Peveril Castle. Like Blue John Cavern, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the village. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 1,500 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Market Pl, Castleton, Hope Valley S33 8WQ, UK.

Cave Dale is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Castleton. This landmark and top attraction in Castleton has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 360 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Secret Valley, Hope Valley, Derbyshire S33 8WS, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the village of Castleton below.